The NatWest bank in Royston provides a vital service to local residents and organisations. That's why I have been campaigning with local residents and councillors to try and reverse the decision to close it.

The Royston Tenants' and Residents' Association (TARA) has collected over 600 signatures on their petition, which we handed in to regional managers at the bank earlier this month. I also wrote to the Chief Executive of the bank, raising my constituents' concerns. He promised a 'thorough review' of the decision, although has not yet agreed to my suggestion to halt the closure while this investigation takes place.

This branch is at the heart of the Royston community, providing much-needed services for local people, businesses and organisations. Many of my constituents remain in the dark about why this branch is closing. It’s clear to me that the NatWest have fallen short when it comes to consulting with the local community about this closure.

It is deeply disappointing, given that the NatWest’s 4-point customer charter pledges 'to put customers’ needs first, to make banking easier, to be there whenever customers need help, and to be fair and honest'. As taxpayers, my constituents rightly feel they have a personal stake in the NatWest as part of the Royal Bank of Scotland Group.